James was interviewed about a new campaign from the Government to boost the take up of Pension Credit, giving more vulnerable pensioners across North West Norfolk the support they need.
- There are already around 2545 claimants in North West Norfolk benefiting from an average of £3,500 a year in extra support but it is estimated around quarter of people who could claim do not.
- Check if you are eligible for Pension Credit online https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Pension Credit is worth over £3,500 a year on average and is designed to help with daily living costs for people over State Pension age and on a low income, though you do not need to be in receipt of State Pension to receive it.
Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £201.05 a week for single pensioners or £306.85 for couples. It is a tax-free payment for those who have reached Pension Credit qualifying age, which is State Pension age.
Someone may still get Pension Credit if they:
- have not paid National Insurance contributions
- have some savings or a small pension
- live with their grown-up family
- own their own home
People who have more income or savings than this may still qualify for Pension Credit.
If they are over 65 and reached their State Pension age before 6 April 2016, they could still qualify for Pension Credit if their weekly income is less than:
- £240.90 if they are single
- £351.45 if they are a couple
Even a small Pension Credit award can open doors to other benefits – including help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills, as well as up to £600 in extra Cost of Living payments later this year too.
